1. **Use the Right Gear**: When targeting pike, use a landing net with a rubberized mesh. This type of net is gentler on the fish's skin and reduces the risk of removing their protective slime layer.
2. **Wet Your Hands**: Before handling the pike, wet your hands to minimize damage to their skin. Avoid using a towel as this can remove their protective slime.
3. **Support the Fish Properly**: When lifting the pike out of the water, support its body with both hands. One hand should be placed under the belly, and the other should be at the tail. Avoid holding them vertically; this can stress the fish.
4. **Minimize Air Exposure**: Try to keep the fish in the water as much as possible. If you need to take a photo, do it quickly and return the fish to the water promptly.
5. **Use Barbless Hooks**: If you’re using hooks, consider barbless ones. They make it easier to release the fish without causing significant injury.
6. **Revive the Fish**: If the pike is lethargic after being caught, hold it in the water facing upstream to help it regain its strength. Gently move it back and forth in the water to get water flowing over its gills.
7. **Be Mindful of Temperature**: Avoid fishing for pike during extreme heat, as warmer water can stress them out. Early morning or late evening is usually the best time.
By following these steps, you can ensure that pike are handled with care and released back into the water safely, promoting a healthy fish population for future generations of anglers to enjoy.
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